Düren, Germany, January 28, 2018. On Wednesday night, SWD powervolleys DÜREN face heavy favourites Ziraat Bankasi ANKARA in the re-match scheduled for the 8th Finals of the 2018 CEV Volleyball Cup – Men. The Germans take on a massive challenge as they try to make their way into the quarterfinals after losing the first match in Turkey in straight sets to Ziraat Bankasi. Therefore, they have to return the favour and win 3-0 or 3-1 to force a Golden Set. Any other results will lead to the Turkish side making it through to the next round. The match will start on Wednesday a 7 pm in Düren.

“We are looking forward to this match,” SWD powervolleys head coach Stefan Falter said. “Ziraat Bankasi means a huge challenge for us and we are willing to accept it.” Not only will the Germans - currently sitting in fourth position in the Bundesliga - have to face an Ankara-squad packed with international stars. The SWD powervolleys also need to deal with the problem that their two most experienced outside hitters Dirk Westphal and Romans Sauss are out for the match. Westphal has begun his recovery after undergoing surgery on his right hand, while Sauss is dealing with muscular problems.

This will give the young guns on the German team an opportunity to show what they are capable of while performing on the highest level. “All of our available players will get their time on the court,” Falter said. “We will do our best to make it as hard as possible for Ziraat Bankasi. Let’s see what this is good for.”

The hosts hope for a big crowd especially after as many as 4,000 people attended the previous match in Turkey. Now it is possible that a lot Germans with Turkish offspring will show up to see the number two team in Turkey. Together with the local supporters, they will for sure create a great atmosphere.